KIRKUS REVIEW

Towering legs and long necks can get
in the way of a friendship.

The unnamed, rosy-cheeked, white
narrator ticks off facts about giraffes—yes, they are tall. Yes, they are
gentle. But this little tot is sure about one more thing. Looking directly at
readers, hands splayed in exasperation, the child proclaims, “Giraffes
ruin everything.” Whatever you do, don’t invite a giraffe to a birthday party.
He will slurp the punch with his long tongue and not even apologize when he
stains your shirt. (The giraffe is referred to throughout as male.) And at the
park? The giraffe will hog the entire slide; his feet will be at the bottom,
but his head will still be at the top. Plus, he can steal your ice cream from
half a block away! Giraffes really do ruin everything. (The poor giraffe looks
more and more devastated each time he is declared unfit for friendship.) But
maybe, just maybe, a giraffe would be helpful to have around sometimes.
Especially when friends are quick to shout that you ruin everything.
When the tables are turned, suddenly all mistakes seem more forgivable. Bright
digital illustrations enliven this cheeky tale.

A young child learns to navigate the
nuances of social relationships, with help from a spotted, lanky friend. (Picture
book. 3-7)

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